Japanese belladonna

Scopolia japonica

Physical Characteristics

Scopolia japonica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antispasmodic Antitussive Diuretic Dysentery Sedative Anodyne, antispasmodic, antitussive and diuretic[147, 178]. It is used in the treatment of manic depression, spasms, stomach aches, chronic diarrhoea and dysentery[147]. The rot has sedative properties and is used in Korea in the treatment of pleurisy[279].

Known Hazards

A highly toxic plant[147, 178].